Kathe Kruse is the oldest German luxury doll company that still exists and still continues to produce using the same quality centred methods of production. “Handwork, I have never left this principal and never will. The hand follows the heart. Only the hand can create what the hand returns to the heart” – Kathe Kruse 1905. These words have become immortalised in the concept of the Kathe Kruse dolls.

Before becoming well-known as a producer of some of the very best fine dolls, Kathe Kruse began her lifes journey as an actress. During this era of her she life she frequented the inner circles of the artista and literati, there she met the then famous sculptor Max Kruse that was destined to become her husband. Soon, the youthful woman became a mother and devoted her time to bringing up her children. The conventional porcelain dolls that were so common in local shops did not meet the high luxury standards of either parent. Max and Kathe agreed that their children should be have the pleasure of having dolls that they could cherish, cuddle and take anywhere they chose without fear of breaking them. The solution was to start making their own dolls. Word soon spread of the high quality of her luxury dolls and demand began to rise. By 1912, the family moved to Bad Kosen and set up a small factory.

The standard by which they made their products is very much still alive and the very best care is taken in making each item by hand. Their designs vary from classical to innovative, colourful, cheerful and modern - but always centre on the basic needs of the child. The dolls and toys have been the recipients of many awards including the 'FORM’ prize by the Bundesverband Kunsthandwerk e. V. for their excellent luxury craftsmanship. The fastidiousness with which the luxury materials are selected reflects the care that is taken into producing these luxury items. Kathe Kruse has long insisted that children need to express their feelings of affection and attachment through physical contact. So many feelings can be expressed through a simple gesture and no emotion is better expressed than affection through the simple embrace of a child. This frequent contact between the toy and the child’s skin requires the use of first class materials that have been tried and tested to meet hygiene standards. They favour natural materials that will ensure a high health standard. During selection, special attention is paid to the cheerfulness of colors and patterns in order to awaken a child’s curiosity.

In a world where so many products are manufactured en masse it is good to know that items of luxury are still being produced. That there is a company that will take into consideration the sensitivity and need for the very best in fine quality and correct materials that won’t irritate the sensitive and fragile skin of our precious young. In the matter of raising our young, there is no doubt that a little bit of handcrafted luxury handmade by Kathe Kruse will be a friend which your child will be able to love and care.

Editorial | Image Courtesy Of Kathe Kruse